what is "Nihil Obstat" and "Imprimatur" in Catholic books?

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Hi,

I just wanted to know what the terms "Imprimatur" and "Nihil Obstat"(or something like that) are on the inside front of Catholic books. Usually, it is the name of a Priest or Bishop. I also want to know why this isn't always true of modern Catholic books as well, since it seems to be mostly on older (possibly pre-Vatican II?) books.

-- Andrew Staupe (stau0085@umn.edu), April 25, 2004

Answers

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-- Andrew Staupe (stau0085@umn.edu), April 25, 2004.

From: terms at www.ewtn.com

Imprimatur - Literally, "let it be printed". The judgment by a bishop that a written work may be published. It is typically preceded by the work and judgment of a Censor, who gives the work his "nihil obstat".

Nihil Obstat - Literally, "nothing stands in the way", or, "nothing obstructs". The judgment by a curial official, or officials, that there is no obstacle to a work or process going forward. In Causes this means that the Roman Congregations, especially the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, possess no information or grounds that would prevent the Cause from proceeding. It leaves the definitive judgment of the issue to higher authority, whether the bishop or the Pope.



-- Bill Nelson (bnelson45-nospam@hotmail.com), April 25, 2004.


In a book or pamphlet, the "Nihil obstat" is usually in the name of an expert theologian employed by the diocese where the work was published. It means in effect that there is nothing in the book which teaches anything contrary to the truth of the Catholic faith. The "Imprimatur" is usually signed by the bishop of the diocese where the work is published, signifying that he has no objection to its publication.

There is no implication that those who give the "nihil obstat" and "imprimatur" agree with or endorse any or all of the contents of the book; only that it does not contradict the Catholic faith.

These measures were introduced to provide a guide for Catholics faced with large numbers of publications, often from non-Catholic sources, which appeared to be Catholic but were a danger to the faith of readers. It enables Catholic readers to know what they are reading.

There is no obligation for Catholic authors and publishers to submit their works for the purpose of these statements. However many choose to do so, especially if the subject matter is controversial, and they fear that accusations may be made that the book contradicts the faith.

-- Peter K (ronkpken@yahoo.com.au), May 02, 2004.


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